An official close to the Russian Federal Migration Service said that Russia will probably extend Edward Snowden’s asylum because “his life is endangered”.

After leaking details of American secret state surveillance programs, Snowden searched refuge in Russia, where he was granted a one year-asylum on 1 August 2013.

This has affected the tense relationship between the USA and Russia even more. The USA wants to try Snowden on different charges including espionage.

"I see no problem in prolonging the temporary asylum. The circumstances have not changed. As before, Snowden's life is endangered so the FMS has grounds to extend his status," Vladimir Volokh, head of an advisory body to the migration authorities, told the Interfax news agency.

Neither the Russian Federal Migration Service, nor Snowden’s attorney Anatoly Kucherena were available for comment.